Richard W. "Dick" Johnson

In Loving Memory of Richard (Dick) W Johnson

Richard (Dick) W Johnson, born on July 24, 1933, in Osceola, Wisconsin, peacefully entered eternal rest on October 14, 2023, in Anthem, Arizona. Dick was the beloved son of Edna G. Dombrock and Wallace A Johnson. He was a resident of Anthem, yet his heart always resided in Flint, where he had lived for over 80 years. 

Dick's remarkable journey began at Kearsley High School, where he graduated in 1951. He exhibited his athletic prowess as a football player and track runner there. His early experiences working on the Merkley Farm, later transformed into the FOR-MAR Nature Preserve, cultivated in him an appreciation for nature and the land that lasted a lifetime.

In 1953, Dick answered his nation's call, enlisting in the Army and serving dutifully at Ft. Carson in Colorado Springs, Colorado. His honorable discharge as Corporal (T) came in 1955, followed by eight years of dedicated service in the Army Reserve. In 2018, he found camaraderie among fellow veterans as a member of the Daily Mountain Veterans in Anthem, Arizona.

Transitioning to civilian life, Dick became a licensed pipefitter in the late 1950s. He dedicated his skills and expertise to General Motors in Flint, Michigan, eventually retiring in 1993 from Buick City in Flint after years of hard work.

On August 15, 1959, Dick married the love of his life, Verelle Marie (Johnson), beginning a love story over four decades. Their union had two daughters, Dawn Marie (Barry Miller) of Anthem, Arizona, and Amy Adelle Johnson of Chicago, Illinois. In 1989, when Verelle suffered a stroke, Dick selflessly became her caregiver, offering unwavering support and love until her peaceful passing 17 years later.

Dick was a man deeply connected to the earth and its creatures. His love for fishing, organic gardening, and farm life was unparalleled, evident in the joy he found during summers at the Johnson farm in Minnesota, where cherished memories were made. His passion for nature extended to his own backyard, adorned with over 30 birdhouses, a testament to his admiration for birds. Dick's heart overflowed with affection for animals, particularly dogs, whom he regarded as his "true" best friends.

In addition to his love for family and nature, Dick was a devoted member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Flint, Michigan. His faith provided him with strength and comfort throughout his life's journey.

Dick was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Verelle, both parents, his brother Allan C. Johnson, and his sister-in-law Georgine Johnson. He is survived by his loving daughters Dawn and Amy, his sister-in-law Doris Johnson, brother-in-law Phillip Johnson, nieces Jonna Clifford, Anne Resty, Kim Johnson, Kristyn Resconich, nephew Scott Johnson, and other cherished family members and friends.

Richard and Verelle will be buried at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan. A private ceremony will take place later.
Memorials can be made in Richard’s name to The Humane Society of Genesee County. 

Arrangements are being handled by Sharp Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 6063 Fenton Rd., Grand Blanc. 
Tributes may be shared at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com.